New jobs coaches for Lincolnshire promise to "remove barriers" to employment for those with learning disabilities and autism

The team, working out of Lincolnshire County Council (LCC), is designed to support people with learning disabilities and autism, who are looking for a job or need additional support to remain in work. They also provide employment support to care leavers.

“The team offers intensive, personalised support across the county through 10 job coaches, each with their own dedicated location,” a council spokesperson explains. “The job coaches will work closely with employers, Jobcentre Plus, health services, social care teams, education services and community organisations to provide collaborative, holistic support. In addition, a dedicated employer engagement officer will foster close relationships with local employers to develop inclusive and sustainable job opportunities for those working with the service.”

Cllr Steve Clegg, executive member for adult care and health, said: “Many of the adults we work with are very ambitious, but just need some extra support to help them find a job or stay in work.

“Our job coaches will work with them to understand their strengths, interests and support needs and identify local opportunities to match their aspirations.

“We’ll then co-produce an action plan focused on personal progression and their employment goals, providing tailored support that will also improve their health and wellbeing, build their confidence and help them develop essential life skills. This will include help with practical steps such as CV writing, applications and interview preparation.

“Once a job’s been found, they’ll work with employers to help them settle into their new role, including advice on removing barriers and making reasonable adjustments that could enable them to stay in work and progress.

“We’ll also be supporting those already in employment, offering career profiling and job matching to support career progression, job satisfaction and long-term stability.

“Working life will not only help them become more independent and live a fulfilling purposeful life, but it will also do wonders for their confidence and self-belief. The potential benefits are enormous.”

Referrals to the programme can be made by anyone via an online expression of interest form at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/adult-social-care/inclusive-employment-team.

The Inclusive Employment Team is funded by Connect to Work, part of the government’s Get Britain Working strategy.